By Clint Olivier

SB-54 would allow same sex couples who are married in other states all the rights California grants, except the right to say they are married.

Tuesday night the Porterville City Council Chambers were packed with concerned citizens. At issue: should the council vote to approve a resolution brought forward by councilman Cameron Hamilton opposing SB-54, as a quote "blatant violation of our state constitution."

At times, the meeting took on a strong religious tone, with pastors speaking, both sides reading Bible verses, invoking Jesus Christ, even some shouts of 'Amen' from the audience.

Ed McKervey has lived in Porterville for 25 years. He supports the council and spoke to praise them for taking up the issue.

Barry Caplan is opposed to any resolution, he'd also like to see Prop 8 completely repealed. He says the city has no business interfering in state business.

Mayor Pete V. McCracken voted against bringing the measure before the council. He says it's just not a city issue.